In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the challenges facing regional planning commissions (RPCs) and the allocation of housing targets across municipalities. A key concern raised was the need for adequate staffing within RPCs to support smaller towns that often lack town planners. Participants emphasized the importance of ensuring that resources are not diverted from well-functioning RPCs to assist those struggling.

The conversation also highlighted a proposal from a legislator advocating for RPC funding to be based solely on the number of member towns. This approach could disproportionately impact areas like Chittenden County, which, despite having fewer municipalities, has a significantly larger population. Officials stressed that housing issues are influenced by population density rather than just the number of towns.

The meeting further delved into the development of housing targets, with concerns about the lack of funding for the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) to create these targets. RPCs are currently stepping in to assist, but there are worries about the potential for arbitrary targets that may not consider regional differences adequately.

Participants expressed anxiety over how these housing targets would be established and communicated, with a desire for a logical and fair methodology to be developed. A subcommittee has been formed to address these concerns and work towards a draft methodology before the anticipated release of draft housing numbers later this summer. The discussions underscored the complexities of housing policy and the need for collaborative efforts to address the growing housing crisis effectively.